Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. I recently partnered with the Nevada Cancer Coalition to discuss the dangers vaping poses to young people. In recent years, e-cigarettes or vape pens have gained popularity among young adults as a safer alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. However, it is crucial to understand that vaping poses significant risks to the health of young individuals, particularly those under 25. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes do not merely emit harmless water vapor. In this blog post, we will explore the potential dangers of vaping and shed light on the importance of raising awareness about these risks.

The Reality of Vaping

E-cigarettes produce an aerosol, commonly mistaken for water vapor, that can contain harmful chemicals found in the e-juice used to fuel them. When inhaled, these aerosols enter the lungs, similar to traditional tobacco cigarettes, and like combustible cigarette smoke, this aerosol is also exhaled into the surrounding environment. This exhaled aerosol can pose a potential danger to those nearby, making passive exposure a cause for concern.

Nicotine and Its Impact

One of the most common concerns associated with vaping is the presence of nicotine. Nicotine, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of both the lungs and the brain, particularly in individuals under the age of 25. Young adults are still in a critical stage of growth and development, and exposing their developing bodies to nicotine can have long-lasting effects. It is important to realize the dangers of vaping extend beyond addiction; they can affect overall health and well-being.

Unintended Consequences of Flavoring

Flavored e-juices are extremely popular among e-cigarette users, with approximately 85% opting for flavored options. However, these flavors were not designed to be inhaled and may pose serious health risks. Artificial flavors used in e-cigarettes have been linked to the development of lung diseases. Shockingly, these flavors can contain dangerous chemicals such as benzene and heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead. The inhalation of these substances can have severe consequences on respiratory health.

Taking Proactive Steps

Young adults must understand the risks to their health and the health of those around them. Recognizing that there is no safe use of e-cigarettes among youth, especially between the ages of 10 and 25, is the first step toward informed decision-making. By understanding the dangers of vaping, young individuals can make more informed choices about their well-being.

Conclusion

Vaping is not the harmless activity it is often portrayed to be. The risks associated with e-cigarettes extend far beyond harmless water vapor. The aerosol produced by these devices contains harmful chemicals, which, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of the lungs and the brain in young adults. Moreover, while enticing, the flavors used in e-cigarettes can introduce dangerous substances into the respiratory system. 

For more information on this topic, please visit HealthyLungsNV.org or these other sources.

• https://www.nevadacancercoalition.org/healthy-lungs-nv
• https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/Quick-Facts-on-the-Risks-of-E-cigarettes-for-Kids-Teens-and-Young-Adults.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/p1007-e-cigarette-use.html

Remember, your health matters.

Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

The Risks of Vaping on Young Adults Under 21: Beyond Harmless Water Vapor